Adjustable weight sports bat system

ABSTRACT

A sports bat system includes a bat body, a barrel end assembly and a handle end assembly. The bat body includes a barrel section and a handle section that is connected to the barrel section. The barrel end assembly is secured to the barrel section. The barrel end assembly can include a removable first weight. The handle end assembly is secured to the handle section. The handle end assembly can include a removable second weight. The first weight and the second weight can be interchangeable with one another. The barrel end assembly can include a first weight retainer that is fixedly secured to the barrel section and selectively retains the first weight. The sports bat system can also include plurality of removable first weights that are alternately retained by the first weight retainer. In some embodiments, each of the first weights can have a different mass from one another, can be the same size and shape as one another and/or can be formed from a different material from one another. The handle end assembly can include a second weight retainer that is fixedly secured to the handle section and selectively retains the second weight. The sports bat system can also include a plurality of second weights that are alternately retained by the second weight retainer.

BACKGROUND

Many sports bat manufacturers produce bats with static weight properties, needing multiple versions of a single bat to achieve different overall weights, different swing weights and different balances. Currently, a player wanting to adjust for varying hitting conditions must own multiple bats, which can be not only cumbersome and difficult to transport, but expensive. Additionally, the player wanting to experiment with multiple bats having incrementally different moments of inertia (MOI) or centers of percussion (COP) must have the wherewithal to purchase or borrow the experimental bats, which may be rather problematic or impractical for many players. Further, finding the correct bat that complements each player's unique swing can be particularly challenging.

SUMMARY

The present invention is directed toward an adjustable weight sports bat system (also referred to herein as a “sports bat system” or a “bat system”). The sports bat system includes a bat body, a barrel end assembly and a handle end assembly. The bat body includes a barrel section and a handle section that is connected to the barrel section. The barrel end assembly is secured to the barrel section. In various embodiments, the barrel end assembly includes a removable first weight. The handle end assembly is secured to the handle section. In certain embodiments, the handle end assembly includes a removable second weight. In some embodiments, the first weight and the second weight can be interchangeable with one another.

In some embodiments, the barrel end assembly can include a first weight retainer that selectively retains the first weight. The first weight retainer can be fixedly secured to the barrel section. In various embodiments, the first weight retainer can be adhesively secured to the barrel section. The first weight can threadedly engage the first weight retainer.

In certain embodiments, the sports bat system can also include plurality of removable first weights that are alternately retained by the first weight retainer. In some embodiments, each of the first weights can have a different mass from one another. In various embodiments, the plurality of removable first weights can be substantially the same size and shape as one another. In certain embodiments, each of the first weights can be formed from a different material from one another.

In various embodiments, the handle end assembly can include a second weight retainer that selectively retains the second weight. The second weight retainer can be fixedly secured to the handle section. Further, the second weight retainer can be adhesively secured to the handle section. The second weight can threadedly engage the second weight retainer. In certain embodiments, the first weight retainer and the second weight retainer are not interchangeable with one another.

In another embodiment, the sports bat system can also include a plurality of second weights that are alternately retained by the second weight retainer. In some embodiments, each of the second weights can have a different mass from one another. In various embodiments, the plurality of second weights can be substantially the same size and shape as one another. In certain embodiments, each of the second weights can be formed from a different material from one another.

The present invention is also directed toward a sports bat system that includes a bat body and a barrel end assembly. The bat body includes a barrel section and a handle section that is connected to the barrel section. In this embodiment, the barrel end assembly is secured to the barrel section. Further, the barrel end assembly includes a first weight retainer and a plurality of removable first weights that are alternately retained by the first weight retainer. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of first weights can be being substantially the same size and shape as one another, and can have a different mass from one another.

The present invention is also directed toward a sports bat system that includes a a bat body and a handle end assembly. The bat body can include a barrel section, and a handle section that is connected to the barrel section. The handle end assembly is secured to the handle section. The handle end assembly can include second weight retainer and a plurality of removable second weights that are alternately retained by the second weight retainer. In various embodiments, each of the plurality of second weights can be substantially the same size and shape as one another, and can have a different mass from one another.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features of this invention, as well as the invention itself, both as to its structure and its operation, will be best understood from the accompanying drawings, taken in conjunction with the accompanying description, in which similar reference characters refer to similar parts, and in which:

FIG. 1A is a side view of one embodiment of an adjustable weight sports bat system having features of the present invention;

FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view of the adjustable weight sports bat system taken at line 1B-1B in FIG. 1A;

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a portion of a barrel end assembly, including a first weight retainer;

FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional view of the first weight retainer taken on line 2B-2B in FIG. 2A;

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a portion of a handle end assembly, including a second weight retainer;

FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view of the second weight retainer taken on line 3B-3B in FIG. 3A;

FIG. 4A is a close-up cross-sectional view of the barrel end assembly and a portion of the barrel illustrated in FIG. 1B;

FIG. 4B is a close-up cross-sectional view of the handle end assembly and a portion of the handle illustrated in FIG. 1B;

FIG. 5 is a side view of one embodiment of a plurality of different first weights and/or second weights;

FIG. 6A is a side view of another embodiment of an adjustable weight sports bat system having features of the present invention;

FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view of the adjustable weight sports bat system taken at line 6B-6B in FIG. 6A;

FIG. 6C is a side view of yet another embodiment of an adjustable weight sports bat system having features of the present invention;

FIG. 6D is a cross-sectional view of the adjustable weight sports bat system taken at line 6D-6D in FIG. 6C;

FIG. 7A is a perspective view of a portion of the barrel end assembly illustrated in FIGS. 6A and 6C;

FIG. 7B is a perspective view of a portion of the barrel end assembly illustrated in FIG. 7A;

FIG. 8 is a close-up view of a portion of the barrel end assembly and a portion of the barrel illustrated in FIGS. 6B and 6D;

FIG. 9A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a weight;

FIG. 9B is a top view of the weight illustrated in FIG. 9A;

FIG. 9C is a cross-sectional view of the weight taken on line 9C-9C in FIG. 9B;

FIG. 10A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a weight fastener;

FIG. 10B is a top view of the weight fastener illustrated in FIG. 10A;

FIG. 10C is a side view of the weight fastener illustrated in FIG. 10A;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a fastener tool;

FIG. 12A is a perspective view of a portion of the handle end assembly illustrated in FIGS. 6A and 6C;

FIG. 12B is a perspective view of a portion of the handle end assembly illustrated in FIG. 12A;

FIG. 13 is a close-up view of a portion of the handle end assembly and a portion of a handle illustrated in FIGS. 6B and 6D;

FIG. 14A is a perspective view of a portion of the handle end assembly including a weight assembly;

FIG. 14B is a top view of the weight assembly illustrated in FIG. 14A; and

FIG. 14C is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly taken on line 14C-14C in FIG. 14B.

DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of the present invention are described herein in the context of an adjustable weight sports bat system. Those of ordinary skill in the art will realize that the following detailed description of the present invention is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. Other embodiments of the present invention will readily suggest themselves to such skilled persons having the benefit of this disclosure. Reference will now be made in detail to implementations of the present invention as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The same or similar reference indicators will be used throughout the drawings and the following detailed description to refer to the same or like parts.

In the interest of clarity, not all of the routine features of the implementations described herein are shown and described. It will, of course, be appreciated that in the development of any such actual implementation, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made in order to achieve the developer's specific goals, such as compliance with application- and business-related constraints, and that these specific goals will vary from one implementation to another and from one developer to another. Moreover, it will be appreciated that such a development effort might be complex and time-consuming, but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking of engineering for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

The adjustable weight sports bat system illustrated and described herein can include any general type of bat that is used in sports, including, as non-exclusive examples, baseball bats and softball bats.

FIG. 1A is a side view of one embodiment of an adjustable weight sports bat system 10 (sometimes referred to herein as a “bat system”). In this embodiment, the bat system 10 includes a bat body 12, a barrel end assembly 14 and a handle end assembly 16. In various embodiments, the bat body 12 is formed from two or more separate sections that are secured together. Alternatively, the bat body 12 can be formed as a unitary structure. The bat body 12 can be hollow or it can have an internal support structure (not shown). In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1A, the bat body 12 includes a barrel section 18, a handle section 20 and a tapered connector section 22. In certain embodiments, the barrel section 18 can have a substantially consistent diameter 40 along the entire length of the barrel section 18. Alternatively, or in addition, in various embodiments, the handle section 20 can have a substantially consistent diameter 41 along the entire length of the handle section 20. The connector section 22 is optional and can be omitted so that bat body only includes the barrel section 18 and the handle section 20. Alternatively, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1A, the connector section 22 can include portions of the barrel section 18 and/or the handle section 20. Still alternatively, the connector section 22 can be formed separately from the barrel section 18 and the handle section 20, and the three sections 18, 20, 22, can be secured together to form the bat body 12.

FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view of the adjustable weight sports bat system 10 taken at line 1B-1B in FIG. 1A. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1B, the barrel end assembly 14 is positioned and/or secured to, or secured adjacent to, an open barrel end 24 of the barrel section 18. In certain embodiments, the barrel end assembly 14 includes a first weight retainer 26 and a selectively removable first weight 28F. In one embodiment, the first weight retainer 26 can be fixedly secured to the barrel section 18 at the barrel end 24. Alternatively, the first weight retainer 26 can be removably secured to the barrel section 18 at the barrel end 24. In one embodiment, the first weight 28F is removably secured to the first weight retainer 26. For example, the first weight 28F can be threadedly secured to the first weight retainer 26. Alternatively, the first weight 28F can be removably secured to the first weight retainer 26 in other suitable manners. Still alternatively, the first weight 28F can be fixedly secured to the first weight retainer 26.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1B, the handle end assembly 16 is positioned and/or secured to, or secured adjacent to, an open handle end 30 of the handle section 20. In certain embodiments, the handle end assembly 16 includes a second weight retainer 32 and a selectively removable second weight 28S. In one embodiment, the second weight retainer 32 can be fixedly secured to the handle section 20 at the handle end 30. Alternatively, the second weight retainer 32 can be removably secured to the handle section 20 at the handle end 30. In one embodiment, the second weight 28S is removably secured to the second weight retainer 32. For example, the second weight 28S can be threadedly secured to the second weight retainer 32. Alternatively, the second weight 28S can be removably secured to the second weight retainer 32 in other suitable manners. Still alternatively, the second weight 28S can be fixedly secured to the second weight retainer 32. It should be noted that in various embodiments, the first weight 28F can also (or alternatively) be securable (fixedly or removably) to the second weight retainer 32 and/or the second weight 28S can be securable (fixedly or removably) to the first weight retainer 26.

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of one embodiment of the first weight retainer 226. In this embodiment, the first weight retainer 226 includes one or more first cavities 236 (only one first weight cavity 236 is shown in FIG. 2A) that receive the first weight 28F (illustrated in FIG. 1B). In one embodiment, the first weight cavity 236 does not extend completely through the first weight retainer 226. Alternatively, the first weight cavity 236 can extend completely through the first weight retainer 226. In embodiments having a plurality of first cavities 236, a plurality of first weights 28F can be received and retained by the first weight retainer 226.

FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional view of the first weight retainer 226 illustrated in FIG. 2A, including the first weight cavity 236.

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of one embodiment of the second weight retainer 332. In this embodiment, the second weight retainer 332 includes one or more second cavities 338 (only one second weight cavity 338 is shown in FIG. 3A) that receive the second weight 28S (illustrated in FIG. 1B). In one embodiment, the second weight cavity 338 does not extend completely through the second weight retainer 332. Alternatively, the second weight cavity 338 can extend completely through the second weight retainer 332. In embodiments having a plurality of second cavities 338, a plurality of second weights 28S can be received and retained by the first weight retainer 332.

FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view of the second weight retainer 332 illustrated in FIG. 3A, including the second weight cavity 338.

FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the barrel end assembly 414 and a portion of the barrel section 418. In this embodiment, the barrel end assembly 414 is positioned at and extends into the barrel end 424 of the barrel section 418. In one embodiment, the first weight retainer 426, which retains the first weight 428F, can be fixedly secured to the barrel end 424 of the barrel section 418 by an adhesive 439. Alternatively, the first weight retainer 426 can be fixedly secured to the barrel end 424 of the barrel section 418 with set screws (not shown), rivets (not shown), pins (not shown), or any other suitable manner.

FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the handle end assembly 416 and a portion of the handle section 420. In this embodiment, the handle end assembly 416 is positioned at and extends into the handle end 430 of the handle section 420. The second weight retainer 432, which retains the second weight 428S, can be fixedly secured to the handle end 430 of the handle section 420 by an adhesive (not shown), set screws (not shown), or any other suitable manner.

FIG. 5 is a side view of one embodiment of a plurality of different weights 528A-D. It is understood that although four weights 528A-D are shown in FIG. 5, any number of weights 528A-D can be included. Although the description herein specifically relates to the weights 528A-D, in one embodiment, these weights can represent first weights or second weights 28S (illustrated in FIG. 1). As illustrated in the embodiment in FIG. 5, the bat system 10 (illustrated in FIG. 1A) can include the plurality of weights 528A-D, each having different properties. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, four weights 528A-D are shown, each having a different weight length 540A-D. In one embodiment, the weights 528A-D are formed from the same material, i.e. stainless steel (or any other suitable material or materials). Because of the different weight lengths 540A-D, the weights 528A-D have a different mass from one another.

In non-exclusive alternative embodiments, the weights 528A-D can have the same length, size and shape, but be formed from different materials or combinations of materials so that they have different overall (average) material densities. In this and/or other embodiments, each weight 528A-D within the bat system 10 can be formed from a singular material or from multiple materials. As used herein throughout this disclosure, the term “material” is understood to mean either a singular material or a combination of materials. Still alternatively, the weights 528A-D can have other properties that are disparate so that each weight 528A-D has a different mass, shape and/or size from one another.

FIG. 6A is a side view of another embodiment of the adjustable weight sports bat system 610A. In this embodiment, the bat system 610A includes a bat body 612A, a barrel end assembly 614A and a handle end assembly 616A. In various embodiments such as the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6A, the bat body 612A is formed from two or more separate sections that are secured together. The bat body 612A can be hollow or it can have an internal support structure (not shown). In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6A, the bat body 612A includes a barrel section 618A, a handle section 620A and a tapered connector section 622A. In certain embodiments, the barrel section 618A can have a substantially consistent diameter 640A along the entire length of the barrel section 618A. Alternatively, or in addition, in various embodiments, the handle section 620A can have a substantially consistent diameter 641 A along the entire length of the handle section 620A.

The connector section 622A is optional and can be omitted so that bat body only includes the barrel section 618A and the handle section 620A. Alternatively, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6A, the connector section 622A can include portions of the barrel section 618A and/or the handle section 620A. Still alternatively, the connector section 622A can be formed separately from the barrel section 618A and the handle section 620A, and the three sections 618A, 620A, 622A, can be secured together to form the bat body 612A.

FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view of the adjustable weight sports bat system 610A taken at line 6B-6B in FIG. 6A. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6B, the barrel end assembly 614A is positioned at an open barrel end 624A of the barrel section 618A. In certain embodiments, the barrel end assembly 614A includes a first weight retainer 626A and a selectively removable first weight 628AF. In one embodiment, the first weight retainer 626A can be fixedly secured to the barrel section 618A at the barrel end 624A. Alternatively, the first weight retainer 626A can be removably secured to the barrel section 618A at the barrel end 624A. In one embodiment, the first weight 628AF is removably secured to the first weight retainer 626A. For example, the first weight 628AF can be threadedly secured to the first weight retainer 626A. Alternatively, the first weight 628AF can be removably secured to the first weight retainer 626A in other suitable manners. Still alternatively, the first weight 628AF can be fixedly secured to the first weight retainer 626A.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6B, the handle end assembly 616A is positioned at an open handle end 630A of the handle section 620A. In certain embodiments, the handle end assembly 616A includes a second weight retainer 632A and a selectively removable second weight 628AS. In one embodiment, the second weight retainer 632A can be fixedly secured to the handle section 620A at the handle end 630A. Alternatively, the second weight retainer 632A can be removably secured to the handle section 620A at the handle end 630A. In one embodiment, the second weight 628S is removably secured to the second weight retainer 632A. For example, the second weight 628AS can be threadedly secured to the second weight retainer 632A. Alternatively, the second weight 628AS can be removably secured to the second weight retainer 632A in other suitable manners. Still alternatively, the second weight 628AS can be fixedly secured to the second weight retainer 632A. It should be noted that in various embodiments, the first weight 628AF can also (or alternatively) be securable (fixedly or removably) to the second weight retainer 632A and/or the second weight 628AS can be securable (fixedly or removably) to the first weight retainer 626A.

FIG. 6C is a side view of yet another embodiment of the adjustable weight sports bat system 610C. In this embodiment, the bat system includes a bat body 612C that is formed as a unitary structure. In other words, the barrel section 618C and the handle section 620C are formed as one single member. Otherwise, the remaining features of the bat system 610C can be substantially similar to those described relative to the bat system 610A in FIG. 6A.

FIG. 6D is a cross-sectional view of the adjustable weight sports bat system 610C taken at line 6D-6D in FIG. 6C, including the barrel section 618C and the handle section 620C.

FIG. 7A is a perspective view of another embodiment of the barrel end assembly 714. In this embodiment, the barrel end assembly 714 includes a first weight retainer 726, one or more first weights 728F (only one first weight 728F is illustrated in FIG. 7A) and one or more first weight fasteners 742F (only one first weight fastener 742F is illustrated in FIG. 7A). The first weight retainer 726 can be fixedly secured to the barrel section 618A (illustrated in FIG. 6A, for example) at the barrel end 624A (illustrated in FIG. 6A, for example) of the bat body 612A (illustrated in FIG. 6A, for example). Alternatively, the first weight retainer 726 can be removably secured to the barrel section 618A at the barrel end 624A. In one embodiment, the first weight 728F is removably secured to the first weight retainer 726 with the first weight fastener 742F.

In certain embodiments, the first weight retainer 726 can be formed from one or more durable materials, such as a medium to high strength plastic material, a composite material, various metals, or combinations thereof. Alternatively, another suitable material can be used to form the first weight retainer 726. Further, the first weight retainer 726 can be resistant to ultraviolet light, as well as resistant to wear from impact or abrasion. In addition, the first weight retainer 726 can be resistant to corrosion and oxidation, as well as resistant to thread shear, torque and pullout from the barrel end 624A of the barrel section 618A.

FIG. 7B is a perspective view of a portion of the barrel end assembly 714 illustrated in FIG. 7A. In this embodiment, the first weight retainer 726 of the barrel end assembly 714 includes a first weight cavity 736 that receives the first weight 728F (illustrated in FIG. 7A) and the first weight fastener 742F (illustrated in FIG. 7A). Although the first weight cavity 736 is shown in a somewhat triangular configuration, and suitable configuration that receives the first weight 728F can be utilized. Stated another way, the first weight cavity 736 can have another configuration, including without limitation, round, oval, square, hexagonal, other polygonal shapes, irregular shapes or any other suitable shape.

FIG. 8 is a close-up view of the barrel end assembly 614A (illustrated in FIG. 6B) and a portion of the barrel section 618A (illustrated in FIG. 6B). In this embodiment, the first weight 628AF is fastened into position within the first weight cavity 636A of the first weight retainer 626A using a threaded first weight fastener 842F. In certain embodiments, the first weight 628AF does not form any portion of the barrel section 618A that is adapted to strike a baseball, a softball, etc. during play. In other words, the first weight 628AF can be recessed sufficiently so that the first weight 628AF does not contact a baseball, a softball, etc. during play. Stated another way, the first weight 628AF can be positioned remotely from the barrel section 618A so that the first weight 628AF does not contact the barrel section 618A. In contrast, in various embodiments, the first weight retainer 626A is fixedly secured to the barrel section 618A, and can even form part of an exterior surface of the bat system 10 that can strike a baseball, a softball, etc. during play, for example.

FIG. 9A is a perspective view of one embodiment of either a first weight or a second weight (sometimes generically referred to herein as “weight 928”). In one embodiment, the weight 928 can be used as a first weight and/or a second weight, and as such, are interchangeable. Stated another way, the first weight and the second weight can have the same size, shape and/or configuration as one another. The weight 928 can be formed from any durable materials that are resistant to impact and abrasion. Further, the weight 928 can be resistant to ultraviolet light and corrosion. In one embodiment, the weight 928 can be formed to have varying masses so that changing the weight 928 within the bat system 10 (illustrated in FIG. 1A) can alter the swing dynamics, the overall weight of the bat system 10, the center of gravity, the center of percussion, the moment of inertia and/or the balance of the bat system 10.

For example, in one embodiment, one bat system 10 can include four first weights and four second weights, i.e. eight total weights 928. In this embodiment, the first and/or second weights can be selectively interchangeable with one another, despite having differences in one or more of their properties. For example, the first weights can each have a different mass from one another, i.e. 0.25 oz., 1.25 oz., 2.25 oz. and 3.0 oz. Somewhat similarly, the second weights can each have a different mass from one another. The foregoing masses indicated herein are provided for ease of understanding only, and are not intended to be limiting in any manner. The masses of the first weights can be the same or different from the masses of the second weights. In non-exclusive alternative embodiments, there can be any suitable number of first weights and/or second weights that may be greater or fewer than four of each.

In one embodiment, the weight 928 can have a volume of approximately 0.27 in³. Alternatively, the volume of the weight 928 can be less than or greater than 0.27 in³. In one embodiment, the materials used for form the different weights 928 can have differing densities from one another. For example, in the embodiment described previously with four weights each having a different mass from one another, the densities can be approximately 1.1 g/cc, 7.8 g/cc, 14.2 g/cc and 19 g/cc. It is understood that these densities are provided for ease of understanding only, and are not intended to be limiting in any manner.

In this embodiment, the weight 928 has a somewhat concave weight top surface 944 that has a triangular configuration. However, as provided above, the weight 928 can have any suitable configuration. The weight 928 also includes a fastener recess 946 and a fastener aperture 948 that receives a first weight fastener 842F (illustrated in FIG. 8, for example) that can conform to the shape of the fastener recess 946. In other words, the fastener recess 946 can be counterbored to receive the weight fastener 842F in a complementary manner.

FIG. 9B is a top view of the weight 928 illustrated in FIG. 9A. The weight 928 includes the fastener recess 946 and the fastener aperture 948 that receives the weight fastener 842F (illustrated in FIG. 8, hereinafter generically referred to as a “weight fastener”) that can conform to the shape of the fastener recess 946.

FIG. 9C is a cross-sectional view of the weight 928 taken on line 9C-9C in FIG. 9B. The weight 928 also includes the fastener recess 946 and the fastener aperture 948 that receives a first weight fastener 642A (illustrated in FIG. 8, hereinafter generically referred to as a “weight fastener”) which can conform to the shape of a portion of the fastener recess 946.

FIG. 10A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a weight fastener 1042. In this embodiment, the weight fastener 1042 can be utilized with either the first weight 628AF (illustrated in FIG. 6B) or the second weight 628AS (illustrated in FIG. 6B). Alternatively, the weight fastener 1042 can be specific to the first weight 628AF or the second weight 628AS. In one embodiment, the weight fastener 1042 can be threaded. Still alternatively, the weight fastener 1042 can include another suitable type of fastener that differs from a threaded screw or bolt-type fastener. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 10A, the weight fastener 1042 is a removable fastener so that the weight 928 (illustrated in FIG. 9A, for example) that is secured by the fastener can likewise be removed and/or replaced.

FIG. 10B is a top view of the weight fastener 1042 illustrated in FIG. 10A. In this embodiment, the weight fastener 1042 includes a fastener recess 1050 that receives an appropriately shaped fastener removal/replacement tool 1151 (illustrated in FIG. 11) to screw or unscrew the weight fastener 1042 into the first weight retainer 626A (illustrated in FIG. 6B, for example) or the second weight retainer 632A (illustrated in FIG. 6B, for example). In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 10B, the fastener recess 1050 is somewhat triangular. In other non-exclusive embodiments, the fastener recess 1050 can have any suitable configuration.

FIG. 10C is a side view of the weight fastener 1042 illustrated in FIG. 10A. The weight fastener 1042 can be fully or partially threaded. Alternatively, the weight fastener 1042 can have no threads at all. Further, the weight fastener 1042 can have a fastener head 1052 that is received by the fastener recess 946 (illustrated in FIG. 9A) of the weight 928 (illustrated in FIG. 9A).

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a fastener removal/replacement tool 1151 that tightens or loosens the weight fastener(s) 1042 (illustrated in FIG. 10A, for example). In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 11, the fastener removal/replacement tool 1151 can have a wrench end 1153 that extends into or around the fastener recess 1050 (illustrated in FIG. 10B). In one non-exclusive embodiment, the fastener removal/replacement tool 1151 can be a torque wrench having either preset or adjustable torque settings to accurately tighten or untighten the weight fastener(s) 1042. Alternatively, the fastener removal/replacement tool 1151 can be any suitable wrench that can tighten or loosen the weight fastener(s) 1042.

FIG. 12A is a perspective view of another embodiment of the handle end assembly 1216. In this embodiment, the handle end assembly 1216 includes a second weight retainer 1232, one or more second weights 1228S (only one second weight 1228S is illustrated in FIG. 12) and one or more second weight fasteners 1242S (only one second weight fastener 1242S is illustrated in FIG. 12A). The second weight retainer 1232 can be fixedly secured to the handle section 20 (illustrated in FIG. 1, for example) at the handle end 30 (illustrated in FIG. 1, for example). Alternatively, the second weight retainer 1232 can be removably secured to the handle section 20 at the handle end 30. In one embodiment, the second weight 1228S is removably secured to the second weight retainer 1232 using the second weight fastener 1242S.

In certain embodiments, the second weight retainer 1232 can be formed from a durable material, such as a medium to high strength plastic material, a composite material, or any other suitable material or combination of materials. Further, the second weight retainer 1232 can be resistant to ultraviolet light, as well as resistant to wear from impact or abrasion. In addition, the second weight retainer 1232 can be resistant to corrosion and oxidation, as well as resistant to thread shear, torque and pullout from the handle end 30 of the handle section 20.

FIG. 12B is a perspective view of a portion of the handle end assembly 1216 illustrated in FIG. 12A. In this embodiment, the second weight retainer 1232 of the handle end assembly 1216 includes a second weight cavity 1238 that receives the second weight 1228S (illustrated in FIG. 12A) and the second weight fastener 1242S (illustrated in FIG. 12A). Although the second weight cavity 1238 is shown in a somewhat triangular configuration, and suitable configuration that receives the second weight 1228S can be utilized. Stated another way, the second weight cavity 1238 can have another configuration, including without limitation, round, oval, square, hexagonal, other polygonal shapes, irregular shapes or any other suitable shape.

FIG. 13 is a close-up cross-sectional view of the handle end assembly 616A and a portion of a handle section 620A illustrated in FIG. 6B. In this embodiment, the second weight 628AS is fastened into position within the second weight cavity 1338 of the second weight retainer 632A using a threaded second weight fastener 1342S.

FIG. 14A is a perspective view of a portion of the handle end assembly 616A (illustrated in FIG. 6B, for example) including a weight assembly 1454. In this embodiment, the weight assembly 1454 includes a weight 1428, a weight fastener 1442 and a fastener retainer 1456 (illustrated in FIG. 14C). In one embodiment, the weight fastener 1442 can rotate relative to the weight 1428, however, the weight fastener 1442 remains connected or otherwise coupled to the weight 1428 so the weight fastener 1442 and the weight 1428 do not become easily separated from one another.

FIG. 14B is a top view of the weight assembly 1454 illustrated in FIG. 14A, including a weight 1428, a weight fastener 1442 and a fastener retainer 1456 (illustrated in FIG. 14C).

FIG. 14C is a cross-sectional view of the weight assembly 1454 taken on line 14C-14C in FIG. 14B. The fastener retainer 1456 movably connects or otherwise couples the weight 1428 and the weight fastener 1442 together. In one embodiment, the fastener retainer can be a C-clip or another suitable type of retaining mechanism.

The modularity of the bat systems 10 described herein allows both the barrel end and handle end to be weighted independently. The systems shown and described herein enables a manufacturer to sell a single bat system 10, reducing the overall amount of SKU offerings to fill a need in the marketplace.

In general, the adjustable weight sports bat system 10 can be used for a variety of functions, listed below:

-   -   Bat fitting: ability to achieve optimized bat weighting         characteristics for player's weight, strength, swing speed,         etc.;     -   Weight training: ability to adjust bat for training, i.e. heavy         setting to build strength;     -   Game time: ability to control performance and ball placement;     -   Weather: ability to compensate for strong winds, rain, etc.

It is understood that although a number of different embodiments of the adjustable weight sports bat system 10 have been illustrated and described herein, one or more features of any one embodiment can be combined with one or more features of one or more of the other embodiment, provided that such combination satisfies the intent of the present invention.

While a number of exemplary aspects and embodiments of the adjustable weight sports bat system 10 have been shown and disclosed herein above, those of skill in the art will recognize certain modifications, permutations, additions and sub-combinations thereof. It is therefore intended that the system and method shall be interpreted to include all such modifications, permutations, additions and sub-combinations as are within their true spirit and scope, and no limitations are intended to the details of construction or design herein shown. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A sports bat system, comprising: a bat body including a barrel section, and a handle section that is connected to the barrel section; a barrel end assembly that is secured to the barrel section, the barrel end assembly including a removable first weight; and a handle end assembly that is secured to the handle section, the handle end assembly including a removable second weight.
 2. The sports bat system of claim 1 wherein the barrel end assembly includes a first weight retainer that selectively retains the first weight.
 3. The sports bat system of claim 2 wherein the first weight retainer is fixedly secured to the barrel section.
 4. The sports bat system claim 2 wherein the first weight retainer is adhesively secured to the barrel section.
 5. The sports bat system of claim 2 wherein the first weight threadedly engages the first weight retainer.
 6. The sports bat system of claim 2 further comprising a plurality of removable first weights that are alternately retained by the first weight retainer, each of the first weights having a different mass from one another.
 7. The sports bat system of claim 6 wherein the plurality of removable first weights are substantially the same size and shape as one another.
 8. The sports bat system of claim 2 further comprising a plurality of first weights that are alternately retained by the first weight retainer, each of the first weights being formed from a different material from one another.
 9. The sports bat system of claim 1 wherein the handle end assembly includes a second weight retainer that selectively retains the second weight.
 10. The sports bat system of claim 9 wherein the second weight retainer is fixedly secured to the handle section.
 11. The sports bat system of claim 9 wherein the second weight retainer is adhesively secured to the handle section.
 12. The sports bat system of claim 9 wherein the second weight threadedly engages the second weight retainer.
 13. The sports bat system of claim 9 further comprising a plurality of second weights that are alternately retained by the second weight retainer, each of the second weights having a different mass from one another.
 14. The sports bat system of claim 13 wherein the plurality of second weights are substantially the same size and shape as one another.
 15. The sports bat system of claim 9 further comprising a plurality of second weights that are alternately retained by the second weight retainer, each of the second weights being formed from a different material from one another.
 16. The sports bat system of claim 9 wherein the barrel end assembly includes a first weight retainer that selectively retains the first weight.
 17. The sports bat system as in claim 1 wherein the first weight and the second weight are interchangeable with one another.
 18. The sports bat system as in claim 1 wherein the first weight and the second weight are not interchangeable with one another.
 19. The sports bat system as in claim 1 wherein the first weight retainer and the second weight retainer are not interchangeable with one another.
 20. A sports bat system, comprising: a bat body including a barrel section, and a handle section that is connected to the barrel section; and a barrel end assembly that is secured to the barrel section, the barrel end assembly including a first weight retainer and a plurality of removable first weights that are alternately retained by the first weight retainer, each of the plurality of first weights (i) being substantially the same size and shape as one another, and (ii) having a different mass from one another.
 21. The sports bat system of claim 20 wherein the plurality of first weights are each formed from a different material from one another.
 22. The sports bat system of claim 20 further comprising a handle end assembly that is secured to the handle section, the handle end assembly including a second weight retainer and a removable second weight that is selectively retained by the second weight retainer.
 23. The sports bat system of claim 20 wherein the plurality of first weights and the second weight are interchangeable with one another.
 24. A sports bat system, comprising: a bat body including a barrel section, and a handle section that is connected to the barrel section; and a handle end assembly that is secured to the handle section, the handle end assembly including a second weight retainer and a plurality of removable second weights that are alternately retained by the second weight retainer, each of the plurality of second weights (i) being substantially the same size and shape as one another, and (ii) having a different mass from one another.
 25. The sports bat system of claim 24 wherein the plurality of second weights are each formed from a different material from one another.
 26. The sports bat system of claim 24 further comprising a barrel end assembly that is secured to the barrel section, the barrel end assembly including a first weight retainer and a removable first weight that is selectively retained by the first weight retainer.
 27. The sports bat system of claim 26 wherein the plurality of second weights and the first weight are interchangeable with one another. 